Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset: What Every Parent and Educator Should Know

Have you ever heard a child say, “I’m just not good at this,” or “I’ll never be as smart as

them”? These aren’t just expressions of frustration—they’re signs of how that child sees their

own potential.

Understanding the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset can unlock a

powerful shift in how children approach challenges, build confidence, and view their ability to

learn.

What Is a Mindset?

A mindset is the internal voice that shapes how we interpret success, failure, and ability. It’s

the belief system we carry about whether we’re born with certain talents—or whether those

abilities can evolve through learning and effort.

Psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck introduced the world to two distinct types of mindsets:

Fixed Mindset

A fixed mindset reflects the belief that our intelligence and talents are permanent traits.

People who think this way often feel limited by their natural abilities and may avoid

challenges that could expose their weaknesses.

Examples of fixed mindset thinking:

• “I’m just not good at reading.”

• “It’s not worth trying—I’ll never get it.”

• “I failed, so I must not be smart.”

This outlook can discourage effort, limit perseverance, and create anxiety around failure.

Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is grounded in the idea that skills and intelligence can improve over time

with effort, persistence, and the right strategies. People with this mindset see setbacks as

part of the learning process—not as a measure of their self-worth.

Examples of growth mindset thinking:

• “I don’t understand this yet, but I will.”

• “I learn from my mistakes.”

• “If I keep practicing, I’ll get better.”

Children who develop a growth mindset tend to be more resilient, open to feedback, and

eager to take on new challenges.

Why Mindset Shapes Success

Mindset doesn’t just impact learning—it affects how children see themselves in the world. A

child’s mindset can influence everything from academic progress to emotional well-being and

relationships.

Key Benefits of a Growth Mindset:

• Improved academic performance: Especially in math, reading, and STEM fields.

• Greater emotional resilience: Children bounce back from failure instead of giving up.

• Higher motivation: Kids become more willing to tackle challenges and keep going.

Research consistently shows that when students adopt a growth mindset, they are more

likely to engage deeply, take academic risks, and persevere—even in the face of difficulty.

How to Encourage a Growth Mindset

The great news is that mindset is not fixed—it can shift over time with support and intentional

strategies. Here are several ways to help children develop a more flexible and empowered

way of thinking:

1. Focus on Effort Over Outcome

Instead of praising intelligence ("You’re so smart!"), try saying, “I really admire how hard you worked on that.” This helps children value persistence rather than relying on natural ability.

2. Normalize Mistakes as Part of Learning

Rather than shielding kids from failure, help them reflect on what they can learn from it. You

can say, “That mistake is helping your brain grow—what will you try next time?”

3. Add the Word “Yet” to Their Vocabulary

When a child says, “I can’t do this,” teach them to reframe it as, “I can’t do this yet.” That

small word shifts the focus from limitation to possibility.

4. Be a Role Model

Let kids witness your own growth journey. Whether you’re learning a new skill, handling a

challenge, or working through frustration—share your thought process aloud: “This is tricky,

but I’m going to figure it out.”

5. Celebrate Progress, Not Just Results

Highlight the improvements you see over time, no matter how small. “Last week this was

tough for you, and now you’re doing it so much more confidently!”

A Mindset Shift in Action

Imagine a child who doesn’t perform well on a spelling test. With a fixed mindset, they might

think, “I’m just not good at spelling.” But with guidance and encouragement, they can instead

say, “I didn’t do well this time, but now I know what I need to study.”

That single shift in perspective builds more than better spelling—it builds confidence,

accountability, and long-term resilience.

Final Takeaway

Helping children develop a growth mindset gives them tools they’ll use for life. It teaches

them that effort matters, that failure is not final, and that they are capable of learning and

evolving.

Mindset isn’t just about school success—it’s about cultivating confidence, perseverance, and

the belief that anything is possible with practice and patience.

Action Step

What messages are your children hearing about their abilities today? Start the

conversation—and let growth begin.